Can Roof Vents Breathe Under Snow?
Roof Vents are Crucial for Attic Ventilation
Roof vents play an important role in the ventilation of a home or building, but during the winter months, many homeowners may wonder if these vents can still function properly under a layer of snow. The short answer is yes, roof vents can still breathe under snow.
Hot Air from Inside your Home Will Find a Way Out of Your Attic
Roof vents work by allowing hot air to escape from the attic, which helps to regulate the temperature and prevent moisture buildup. When snow accumulates on the roof, it may seem like the vents are blocked and unable to function, but in most cases, the snow will not impede the flow of air through the vents. The heat generated inside the attic will melt the snow on the roof and allow the hot air to escape through the vents.
Snow that has Settled on Your Roof is 90 - 95% Air
The 90-95% air number in snow is a commonly cited estimate in literature about snow science, and it is based on various studies and experiments conducted on snow samples. Because the snow on your roof is mostly air, even when your vent is completely covered, air will be able to escape.
Extremely Heavy or Prolonged Snowfall
However, in certain situations where there is a heavy snowfall or where the snowfall is prolonged, the vents may temporarily become blocked by the accumulation of snow. In time the hot air from your attic will melt a path and allow for proper ventilation once again.
Possible Alternative: Tower Vents
Another option to consider is tower vents, which are designed to exhaust air above the snow line. These vents are typically taller than traditional roof vents and are placed higher up on the roof. This allows them to function even when the rest of the roof is covered in snow. Tower vents can be an effective solution for homes in areas with heavy snowfall, but they can be more expensive and come with other problems.
Roof Vents Will Breathe Under Snow
Blocked attic vents due to snow should not be a major concern as hot air will naturally escape. The bigger issue lies in blowing snow infiltrating the attic, causing roof water damage and compromising insulation. Taking proactive measures to prevent snow from entering roof vents is crucial to protect the health and longevity of your roofing system. The SNOWVENTCO exhaust vent is specifically designed to prevent particle infiltration with its stainless steel filter, allowing airflow while blocking snow penetration.
Bill Chislett
Chislett Roofing
Newmarket, Ontario
Krzysztof Wolf
Roofer
Toronto, Ontario
Dave Flynn
Roofer
Brighton, Ontario
Francis E. Harris
Roofing Company Owner
Calgary, Alberta
SNOWVENTCO Snow Vents
Upper Roof Exhaust Vent
Install near roof peak to allow warm air to escape. Blocks 99% of snow, diverts rain.
Lower Roof Intake Vent
Suitable for use in place of soffit vents. Blocks 99% of snow, effectively diverts rain.
Skylite Exhaust Vent
Perfect for sheds and garages to allow light in while keeping moisture out.
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Learn How to Install SNOWVENTCO Snow Vents
Tools needed, step-by-step instructions, and videos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roof vents are necessary in order to improve the ventilation in your attic. Adequate ventilation helps to remove excess heat and moisture from your attic, which can prolong the life of your roof and prevent damage to your attic and the rest of your home. Additionally, proper ventilation can help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a health hazard.
There is no one "best" roof ventilation system as the appropriate system will depend on the specific needs of your home and roof. Roof vents are generally divided into active or passive systems with each system having its pros and cons.
The number of roof vents you need will depend on the size and layout of your attic. A general rule of thumb is to have 1 square foot (144 square inches) of vent area for every 150 square feet of attic space. For example, if your attic is 900 square feet, you would need 864 square inches (6 square feet X 144) of vent area. Additionally, it's important to make sure that your vents are properly placed and balanced, with an equal amount of intake and exhaust vents. This will ensure that air is flowing effectively through your attic and not creating pressure that could cause leaks or damage to the roof. Try our roof vent calculator to find the right amount of vents for your roof.
Installing roof vents can be a complex task that requires a certain level of skill and experience. It is recommended that you hire a professional roofing contractor to install your vents, as they will have the knowledge and tools necessary to do the job safely and correctly. However, if you're determined to install them yourself, take a look at our installation video for a step by step demonstration.
No, determined vermin will have a difficult time chewing through the heavy duty plastic outer shell which is much thicker than typical roof vents. If they are able to chew through the plastic they will not be able to get through the stainless steel filter. This will restrict attic access through the vent openings.
Roof vents can breathe under snow, but it depends on the amount of snow and the type of vent. SNOWVENTCO Storm Vents have been tested to allow for airflow even under heavy snowfall conditions. See the link below for video proof.
Yes, the low profile and aerodynamic design of SNOWVENTCO vents combined with heavy duty polymer outer shell mean the SNOWVENTCO vents are very resistant to high winds. Our vents have undergone testing showing that they prevent over 99% of rain, snow, and other particle penetration of attic in CAT 3 hurricane wind conditions. They are also durable enough to stay intact when faced with 120 mph winds.
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